8 Tips To Increase Your Window Sash Repairs Game
Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty knife.
After the sash is cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stopper and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cure, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access the hardware.
Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific window sash.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is centered in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners cash on energy costs.
It is important to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease the energy cost. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.
It is difficult to recover a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.
After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be different in size from what is needed. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord connected to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when it is opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and must be removed. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.
Once window repair Esher is removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. It is important to be patient as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to each component. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, although it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.
Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain, and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can use a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and simple to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.